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Andrew Miller

Andrew studied abroad in Muscat, Oman through the Center for International Learning.
He will graduate from WKU in May 2015 and plans to go on for his Master's in Middle
Eastern Studies.

Majors:

Arabic and History

When and where did you study abroad?

Spring 2014 - Center for International Learning - Muscat, Oman

What did you learn about the rest of the world from studying abroad? What did you
learn about yourself from the experience?

Studying abroad changed my perspective on the world. Things you read and hear are
not always true. I am not as quick to judge when reading or hearing about a region
of the world. I understand cultures and therefore understand the world better. Oman
has taught me patience and tolerance. Oman is not a fast passed country and time is
not of importance. This has shown me to take everything with a grain of salt.

What was your biggest challenge while studying abroad and how did you manage it?

Being in a country that doesn't speak my native language was very challenging at first.
I had to put complete trust in what I had learned at WKU, prior to studying abroad,
and use the skills I learned in class while here, to communicate with the people.
After a few weeks of not giving up, I was just fine and found the Omani people understood
that I wasn't fluent. Communicating with taxi drivers, teachers, and Omani people,
became a great advantage since this opportunity is not available in the United States.

What advice would you give to other students thinking about studying abroad?

Don't be scared to make a mistake and that is a part of growing in your language skills
(If you're studying languages). Studying abroad changed my life and I have no doubt
it will do the same to you. It gives you a complete advantage for a job since you
can understand multiple cultures and have an idea of how to work with others that
aren't of the same origin. Everywhere you go is an opportunity to learn something
new and this will be another advantage you will have when finishing college. Treat
the world like a classroom... Now go learn!